Travel Theme: Markets

Ailsa’s Unofficial Weekly Challenge is here! Well, at least some of us are hoping they are “weekly.” I’m enjoying them, personally! 😀 Thanks, Ailsa!

This week’s theme is Markets! My first thought was my favorite place in Cairo ~ Khan el Khalili! If you would have told me that Khan el Khalili would become my favorite place in Cairo the first time I went there in 2011, I never would have believed you. My first experience was overwhelming. As I walked through the labyrinth-like streets, I became overwhelmed with the many vendors trying to get my attention by initiating conversations. They are relentless! Those who know me well know it’s hard for me not to be friendly and polite. I felt rude at not engaging in a conversation with any of them. For someone who had just learned to say “no” only a few years ago, I still felt awful for constantly saying no. The energy of Khan el Khalili overpowered me. After about 20 minutes, I had to sit in a cafe to deal with myself! That was my first full day in Egypt; I wasn’t used to the vendors, yet… 😀

When I lived in Cairo for 2 1/2 months, it became the place I visited the most! My friends Yousef and Adam took me there to get some tea and sheesha at El Fishawy Cafe and I was instantly swept up by this energy that goes back to when the market was first established in 1382!

This is impressive…But this in unbelievable! What balance…

Although this is a major tourist attraction, you will find just as many locals shopping here. Along with “must have” tourist trinkets, you will find…

Spices

Antique shops (Check out the cameras!)

“Genie lamps” of all sizes…

But my favorite part of Khan el Khalili is when you go just beyond the markets and find:

Ancient architecture…

Beautiful doorways… You can check out my other shots of doors from Khan el Khalili here and here.

Or unexpected alleyways…

I apologize for digressing, but my eyes were mesmerized by the streets just beyond the markets of Khan el Khalili. 😀 If you get the opportunity to visit Khan el Khalili, take the time to go just beyond. You will love the feel of the past come alive.

Click here to see more pictures of this amazing place on my Facebook Fan Page.